1 in 3 men unaware of oesophageal cancer

A recent survey, commissioned by the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), has revealed that nearly 1 in 3 (30%) men in Ireland are unaware of Oesophageal Cancer.

It also shows a significant misunderstanding of Oesophageal Cancer symptoms with 64% of males surveyed unaware that prolonged, chronic heartburn or acid reflux can increase the risk of Oesophageal Cancer. 

The survey of 1,000 adults was conducted nationwide by Amárach Research in January 2025. 

The charity, OCF, says it is determined to address this low level of awareness through its annual Lollipop Day campaign which was launched over the weekend and is taking place on 28^th February and 1^st March, at over 80 locations nationwide. 

While women surveyed displayed a greater awareness of this cancer, 10% still reported being unfamiliar with the disease.

Overall, 20% of respondents across all demographics were unaware of Oesophageal Cancer.

This type of cancer affects more men than women in Ireland, by a ratio of eight to one and it has a 5-year survival rate of 25%.

Worldwide, Oesophageal Cancer is the sixth leading cause of cancer mortality. 

Throughout February, which is Oesophageal Cancer Awareness month, OCF is reminding the public of the importance of recognising the early symptoms of this cancer.

These symptoms include difficulty swallowing food, ongoing heartburn or acid reflux, a persistent cough or unexplained weight loss.

Over 500 people are diagnosed with Oesophageal Cancer each year in Ireland, and it estimated that 2,000 people are currently living with and beyond Oesophageal Cancer here.

Unfortunately, approximately 70% of patients experience possible symptoms of Oesophageal Cancer for 3 months before contacting their doctor.

OCF’s patron and pro-golfer Padraig Harrington is helping the charity to drive the early detection message, lending his voice to this awareness campaign, through video messages and radio ads.  His father Paddy died of Oesophageal Cancer in July 2005, nearly 20 years ago. 

Padraig Harrington says: “Oesophageal cancer is something I know too well, as my father, Paddy, passed away from it. And I want people to know the symptoms. 

“So, if you’re struggling to swallow food, have persistent heartburn, acid reflux or a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, or pain, don’t ignore it.

“Talk to your GP. Catching this cancer early can make all the difference. 

“And I am encouraging more people to get involved with OCF’s Lollipop Day to raise vital awareness and funds for oesophageal cancer.  Early detection saves lives.”

Launching the 24^th annual Lollipop Day at the OCF’s Patient Support meeting in Dublin, Noelle Ryan, Founder and Board member of OCF, said: “Every lollipop, every symptom card and every mention helps us to fill the big awareness gap regarding this cancer.  And we are calling on people to know the symptoms and to be proactive about their oesophageal and gut health. 

“People, especially men, must stop ignoring ongoing chronic heartburn as ‘normal’ and putting up with it for too long before going to their GP.

“When this cancer is caught early, the survival rate can be more than doubled. 

“I want to thank the wonderful volunteers, clubs, schools and businesses who are supporting Lollipop Day and I’d like to acknowledge our dear friends who have passed away from this disease. 

“We thank their families and friends for continuing to support OCF in our vital work and in bringing the good fight to this bad cancer.”

The charity is also using Lollipop Day to urge the Irish pharmaceutical sector to promote early detection by carrying bigger and better warnings on antacid packaging and at point of sale. 

OCF supported the first stage of the antacid bill which was presented in the Seanad in November 2024 by Senator Vincent Martin whose family has also been impacted by this cancer.    

The Oesophageal Cancer Fund is asking that the public buy a lollipop (€3) from volunteers nationwide on the 28^th February and 1^st March 2025 to show support and help fund research into Oesophageal Cancer.

The charity is also urging more local businesses, schools and clubs to get involved by organising their own Lollipop Day to help fill the gap in awareness identified.